Eataly, New York City

Many believe famed entrepreneur Oscar Farinetti has finally laid to rest the notion that themed restaurants are simply all gimmick and no substance. Located beside Madison Square Park in Manhattan, sits his culinary brainchild — Eataly.

This 5^th Avenue destination forges the modernity of the city with the authentic, rustic feel of a traditional Italian market. It features not only numerous street-style vendors, but also dozens of high-end Mediterranean inspired retail stores, as it reinvents the mall with an Italian theme.

However, the most notable element of Eataly is not the commercial presence, but the decadent food found in each of its many restaurants. Although these restaurants, owned by celebrity chef Mario Batali, are all Italian in their aesthetic and menu, no two are the same. They each offer entirely different food, their straightforward, simple names identifying their focus. Il Pesca serves a variety of Italian seafood dishes, while Pasticceria is the place to stop when trying to satisfy a sweet tooth with their selection of fresh pastries. Not all venues are for sitting down, however. For a quick bite, visitors can check out the Gelateria, or sip on something fresh from the vineyard at the Eataly Wine Shop.